Bioplastic for 3D printers launches at TCT Show

Biome Bioplastics has launched a new material for the 3D printing at this year’s TCT Show in Birmingham, UK. Made from plant starches, Biome3D is a biodegradable plastic. It has been designed, the group claims, to offer good processability and finish properties, and can be run at high print speeds.

Plant-based plastics are a popular choice for 3D printing because can be easier to work with during processing. Biome explains that its launch during TCT is an example of a sustainable alternative gaining market share based on performance, rather ‘green credentials’ alone.

While the group conceded that oil-based printing filaments have a higher softening point and make more flexible models that will bend before they break, it claims that Biome3D combines the benefits of both plant and oil-based printing filaments.

“The future of bioplastics lies in demonstrating that plant-based materials can outperform their traditional, oil-based counterparts. Our new material for the 3D printing market exemplifies that philosophy. Biome3D combines the best processing qualities with the best product finish; it also happens to be made from natural, renewable resources,” said Sally Morley, Sales Director at Biome Bioplastics.